Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Need a server to try this on? Antihost offers Linux VPS plans with NVMe storage, full root access and a 14-day free trial.
To transfer local files to a remote server using PuTTY, use PSCP for a one-time or scripted upload and PSFTP for an interactive session with repeated uploads, downloads, and directory browsing. PuTTY itself provides the terminal connection; these companion utilities perform the file transfer over SSH.
This guide shows how to upload a file with PuTTY from Windows, explains the PuTTY PSCP command and PuTTY PSFTP workflow, and covers the permissions, path syntax, and errors that determine whether the transfer succeeds.
Which PuTTY program transfers files?
The PuTTY package contains several related utilities. The terminal client opens an SSH session, but file movement is handled by two separate command-line programs:
PSCP: one-shot secure copying
PSCP is PuTTY’s secure copy utility. It transfers files over SSH and is suited to one file, a simple batch of matching files, or a command you want to run from a script and then finish. Its basic form places a local source on the left and a remote destination in the form [user@]host:target on the right.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Turbo Fan:CAGIWIRU Electric Air Duster have reached speed up to 130000RPM,Can efficient remove dust and debris.With LED light and Three Adjustable Speed to meet with different cleaning tasks.
- With Attached USB C Fasting Charging cable.Charing 3 hours,Enjoy up to 240 minutes of use on the lowest setting, For third speed can use for 25mins.with four charging options to meet with your needs.
- Wide Application:Upgraded attached 5 different nozzles,making it suitable for a variety of scenes, such as car,pet, pc, keyboards, and other electronic devices. It also serves for office and home clean duster.
- Handy Design & Portable:Cordless air duster electric nozzle is Light weight and small size, design and comfortable to hold and space saving, convenient to carry around. You can put it in your room or inside the car without taking up space.
- Warranty & Support: Our Electric air duster comes with 5 years warranty and 24/7 customer service. During this period, if you have any questions,pls kindly feel free to contact us.
PSFTP: an interactive SFTP shell
PSFTP is PuTTY’s SFTP client. It opens an interactive session over SSH-2, lets you browse the remote location, change the local working directory, and issue repeated put and get commands. Choose it when you need to inspect folders or upload several files in separate commands.
“PSFTP, the PuTTY SFTP client, is a tool for transferring files securely between computers using an SSH connection.”
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteSpecial offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.PuTTY User Manual
What you need before starting
Have these details ready before opening Command Prompt:
- The PuTTY package installed on the Windows computer.
- The location of
pscp.exeorpsftp.exe. The executable must be in the current Command Prompt directory or in a folder listed in WindowsPATH. - The remote server’s host name or IP address.
- An SSH account name and its password or configured key.
- The remote directory where the account is allowed to write.
- An SSH service accepting connections from the Windows computer. PSFTP additionally requires the server to provide SSH-2/SFTP support.
A successful SSH login does not automatically grant permission to create files everywhere. The account must have write access to the exact destination directory. If you are unsure, ask the server administrator which directory belongs to your account.
How to upload one local file with PSCP
1. Open Command Prompt and make PSCP available
Install PuTTY, then open Command Prompt. If Windows reports that pscp is not recognized, either change to the directory containing pscp.exe before running the command or add that directory to PATH. Keeping the executable available in PATH is useful when you will run PSCP from different working directories or from a script.
2. Run the basic local-to-remote command
Use this pattern, replacing the example values with your own:
pscp "C:UsersNameDocumentsreport.txt" user@example.com:/home/user/uploads/The quoted Windows path is the local source file. On the right, user is the SSH account, example.com is the server name, and /home/user/uploads/ is the remote directory. The trailing slash makes the intent clear: place report.txt inside that directory.
Rank #2
- Screen Cleaner is Your Screen’s New Bestfriend! - EVEO is proud to present a screen cleaner that’s perfectly suited for your TV. Meet your new screen cleaner, computer screen cleaner, laptop cleaner, iPad cleaner, Macbook,tv cleaner or any other electronic device. Our screen cleaner spray and wipe along with the included plush microfiber cloth, easily removes dust, fingerprints & other smudges on the screen’s surface. Clean effectively for a streak-free screen
- Gentle on your Screens - Our screen cleaner spray and wipes is compatible to be used even for the most sensitive LCD, LED, CRT, and OLED screens in proper use. Be at ease knowing that this product is compatible with all the major brands: LG, SONY, Samsung, Sharp, iPad, iPhone, Android screens, Kindle, PC monitors - we’ve got you covered! Can be used as LCD screen cleaner, tv cleaner, smart tv screen cleaner, and more
- Premium Super Soft Plush Microfiber Cloth - Included in this efficient screen cleaning kit. This screen cleaner spray and wipe has our signature plush microfiber cloth specially designed to comply with screens and monitors and leave them streak-free. Has been shown to effectively absorbs stubborn stains, zero streaks, and no fiber shedding. Always use this together with our screen cleaner for the best results
- Easy-to-Use Screen Cleaner Kit + microfiber cleaning cloth - The EVEO Screen Cleaning Kit will easily be your new favorite tool when it comes to taking care of the things you love most, quick and easy solution for a streak-free screen. Simply screw on the sprayer gun on the screen cleaner bottle. Spray the cleaning liquid onto the microfiber cloth, then wipe the screen until desired cleanliness & shine is achieved.
- Quality Screen Care Kit Worth Purchasing - Enjoy a convenient Screen Cleaner anytime, anywhere you need it. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind the quality of our products and that’s why, you shouldn’t be worrying at all. We manufacture the Best Screen Cleaner. and can be used for laptop cleaning kit, laptop screen cleaner, tv screen cleaner for smart tv. MacBook screen cleaner, monitor cleaner or screen cleaner spray for electronic devices with microfiber cleaning cloth
When PSCP starts, it authenticates to the SSH server. Enter the requested credentials or use the configured key. The transfer can complete only if the account is permitted to write to the destination.
3. Choose the remote filename explicitly when needed
To upload the same local file under a particular remote name, append that name after the destination directory:
pscp "C:UsersNameDocumentsreport.txt" user@example.com:/home/user/uploads/report.txtThis is useful when the receiving application expects a fixed filename or when you want to make the result unambiguous. The local file remains unchanged; only the remote name is specified in the target.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
4. Upload several matching local files with a wildcard
PSCP can copy multiple local files selected by a wildcard. For example:
pscp "C:UsersNameDocumentsreports*.csv" user@example.com:/home/user/uploads/The wildcard is evaluated against the local reports folder, and each matching CSV file is sent to the remote uploads directory. Quote the complete Windows path, including the wildcard, when the folder name contains spaces. A wildcard can select more files than intended, so check the folder contents first when the destination is important.
How to upload files with PSFTP
Use PSFTP when you want to stay connected while examining remote folders or transferring multiple files through separate commands.
1. Start an SFTP session
From Command Prompt, run:
psftp user@example.comReplace the account and host with the values supplied by your server administrator. PSFTP then authenticates to the SSH server and presents its interactive psftp> prompt.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #3
- 【Large size】：Measuring 800 x 300 mm/ 31. 5×12 inches, which is wider and taller than others. Large mouse pad can perfectly fit your keyboard and mouse of any size, and there is also ample space for peripherals such as phones, tablets, etc.
- 【LED backlight mouse pad】：Blade Hawks RGB mouse pad provides 7 static modes and 7 dynamic modes will give you the options you are looking for. Power-off memory function remembers the last lighting mode you selected. The super glow fiber Chroma will give you a colorful gaming setup that you want.
- 【Anti-slip rubber base】：Made from Natural rubber, this gaming mousepad will firmly grip your desktop, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate precision in the games you are most passionate about. It also comes with a texture that enhances this ability even further.
- 【Smooth and waterproof surface】: Micro-textured cloth surface, for extremely precise mouse control and a smooth movement. When liquid splashes on the gaming mouse pad, it forms water droplets and slides down. Will not delay your work or gameplay.
- 【Plug and play】: This mouse and keyboard pad is powered by USB, plug and play, no driver required. One button control light modes. Press one time to change the lighting mode, press twice to change the brightness, press and hold about 3 seconds turn ON/OFF.
2. Inspect the remote location
At the psftp> prompt, use:
dirdir lists the current remote directory. It helps you confirm where you are connected and whether a destination folder is present before uploading. It also gives you a way to inspect the result after a transfer.
3. Set the local working directory
Point PSFTP at the Windows folder containing the file:
lcd C:UsersNameDocumentslcd means “local change directory.” It changes the folder PSFTP uses for local files; it does not change the remote directory. If the Windows folder has spaces, use the appropriate quoted path so PSFTP receives it as one location.
4. Upload the file
Send the file with:
put report.txtPSFTP takes report.txt from the local directory selected by lcd and transfers it to the current remote directory. Repeat put for additional files while the session remains open. You can also use the session for downloads with get when that is part of the same task.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstall5. End the session
When the transfers and checks are complete, leave the interactive shell with:
quitClosing the session after the final operation avoids leaving an unnecessary authenticated connection open.
PSCP or PSFTP: which should you choose?
| Need | Use | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| One file or a simple script | PSCP | One-shot command-line copying over SSH |
| Several files selected interactively | PSFTP | Repeated put and get commands plus directory browsing |
| A file-manager-like shell on a server exposing SSH-2/SFTP | PSFTP | PSFTP uses SFTP, an SSH-2 feature |
| Compatibility with a broad range of SSH servers | PSCP | PuTTY documentation says PSCP should work on virtually every SSH server |
The practical dividing line is whether you want a single command that terminates or a session in which you can examine locations and perform several operations. Both utilities still depend on the same fundamentals: a reachable SSH service, valid authentication, and write permission for the remote target.
Rank #4
- 【Softer and More Comfortable】Vaydeer wrist rest has unique diamond pattern, which is the combination of softness and aesthetics. The materials of wrist rest are improved into higher quality memory foam and covered with silky smooth lycra. The computer wrist rest makes you as comfortable and cushiony as like rest your wrists on clouds.
- 【Ergonomic Wrist Saver】The wrist rests for keyboard and mouse comes with a 17.32×3.15×0.83 inch keyboard wrist pad and a 5.94×3.15×0.83 inch mouse wrist support. Based on ergonomic design, the unique concave shape is the perfect fit for your wrist joints. The wrist rest pad fits most computer keyboards and laptops, improve hand and wrist posture, release your wrist and arm stress.
- 【Non-Slip Rubber Bottom】Featuring an anti-skid silicone base on the bottom, this wrist keyboard support stays firmly in place on your desk, preventing the padding from sliding around, ensuring stable and consistent wrist support during extended computer sessions.
- 【Better Experience & Pain Relief】Our keyboard arm rest is beneficial to alleviate the soreness caused by direct contact and friction between your arm and a hard desk surface, reducing the risk of wrist fatigue or carpal tunnel. The soft texture of memory foam can evenly distribute the pressure around your wrists and provide good support with just enough give.
- 【Helpful in Multiple Scenarios】Whether you're working, studying, writing, typing, gaming, this keyboard and mouse rest combo is an essential accessory to add comfort and support to your hands and wrists. It’s also a great gift for men, women, family, friend, coworker, gamer, teacher, etc.
Understanding the command syntax
Local source path
The first argument in a PSCP upload is the file on Windows. An absolute path such as C:UsersNameDocumentsreport.txt removes ambiguity about the current Command Prompt directory. Relative paths can work when you deliberately start Command Prompt in the file’s folder, but an absolute path is safer for repeatable commands.
Remote account and host
The remote side begins with the SSH username, followed by @ and the server name or IP address. In user@example.com:/home/user/uploads/, the portion before the colon identifies the account and host; everything after the colon is the remote target path.
Remote directory versus remote filename
A target ending in a directory tells PSCP where to place the original filename. Adding a filename after that directory tells PSCP what name to use on the server. Decide which form you need before running a script so that later steps look for the same name you actually created.
Windows spaces and quoting
Windows paths containing spaces must be enclosed in double quotes. Without quotes, Command Prompt splits the path into separate arguments, and PSCP may report that it cannot find the source file or interpret part of the path as another parameter.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Common failures and precise fixes
“pscp is not recognized”
This message means Command Prompt cannot find the executable. Run the command from the folder that contains pscp.exe, or add that folder to the Windows PATH. Apply the same check to psftp.exe when starting an interactive session. Once the executable is discoverable, rerun the original transfer command rather than changing the file paths prematurely.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →“psftp is not recognized”
Use the same remedy for PSFTP: place its executable in the current directory or make its containing folder available through PATH. Confirm that you installed the PuTTY package rather than only copying an unrelated terminal shortcut.
Authentication failure
Check the username and host spelling, the SSH port configured for the server, the password, and the key configured for the account. Also verify that the account is enabled for SSH access. Authentication must succeed before either utility can reach the remote target.
Best Value
- 【No Drill Mounted】Cable management tray can be assembled in as little as 3 minutes or less-simply. Side clips easily clampe the edge of desk, pass through the holes on the sides, and secure excess cables with baskets. Desk cable management supports inward or outward installation to meet your needs in different scenarios, and provides you with great convenience when collecting and organizing wires.
- 【Rubber Pad Protects Desk】Wire organizer under desk built-in soft rubber pads on the clamp protect your desk from scratches, so you will not damage your furniture or office.
- 【Sturdy and Beautiful】Cord management under desk is made of high-quality carbon steel and holds about 15 lbs. The wire basket has 2 holes on each side of the tray to enable your cables to pass freely. Cable baskets are suitable for desk thickness use from 0.4" to 2.4".
- 【Space Saving & Keep Organized】Desk cable management tray holds all your power cords, outlet strips, USB hubs and computer transformers hidden from your feet, and the data cables will not enter the vacuum cleaner to keep your desk clean and tidy. Desk wire organizer is also suitable for use in the kitchen and outdoors.
- 【Reduce Safety Risks】Cable tray under desk keeps all plugs away from your kids, no more worry about tripping. Using 2 holes wire tray saves extra space, helps you easily cabling and wire protection. The mesh design is not easy to accumulate dust, but avoids safety accidents caused by messy wires.
Permission denied after login
If you can authenticate but the upload is rejected, the account likely lacks write permission for the selected remote directory. Use a directory assigned to that account, or ask an administrator to grant the required permission. Changing the Windows source path will not fix a server-side write restriction.
PSCP cannot find the local file
Use the file’s absolute Windows path and check the spelling, extension, and folder. Quote the path if any directory name contains spaces. For wildcard commands, verify that the pattern actually matches the intended files and that the wildcard is inside the quoted local path.
The upload goes to the wrong remote location
Re-read the text after the colon in the destination. In PSCP, that is the remote target, not a local Windows path. In PSFTP, run dir before put to identify the current remote directory. If you changed the local folder with lcd, remember that lcd affects only the local side.
You need browsing or several separate uploads
Switch from PSCP to PSFTP. Start with psftp user@example.com, inspect the remote directory with dir, select the Windows source folder with lcd, and issue one or more put commands. PSCP is intentionally a one-shot utility, so repeatedly launching it is less convenient for an exploratory session.
SFTP is unavailable
PSFTP requires SSH-2/SFTP support from the server. If the server does not provide that transfer protocol, PSFTP cannot establish the required session. Use PSCP when the server’s available SSH transfer support is compatible with PSCP, which PuTTY documents as working with virtually every SSH server.
Reliable workflows for recurring transfers
For a single report or release file
- Confirm the exact local filename and its Windows path.
- Confirm the remote account and writable destination directory.
- Run one PSCP command with the local path quoted.
- Use an explicit remote filename when another system expects a fixed name.
- Check the destination through an appropriate remote listing or application process.
This approach keeps the operation visible: the source, account, host, and target are all present in one command.
For a repeatable group of files
- Place the intended files in a dedicated local folder.
- Choose a wildcard that matches only that group, such as
*.csv. - Quote the complete Windows path.
- Send the matches to a remote directory where the account can write.
- Review the local folder before running the command again, because every matching file will be selected on each run.
Use PSCP for this predictable, script-friendly pattern. If file selection changes from one upload to the next, PSFTP’s interactive put commands provide more control.
For an exploratory or two-way session
- Start PSFTP with the remote account and host.
- Run
dirto understand the remote context. - Run
lcdto select the Windows folder. - Use
putfor uploads andgetfor downloads as needed. - Run
diragain when you need to inspect the remote result. - End with
quit.
Permission and path checks before pressing Enter
- Server access: The host accepts SSH connections from your network.
- Identity: The username, password or key, and configured SSH port belong to the intended account.
- Destination: The remote directory exists and is writable by that account.
- Source: The local filename or wildcard points to the files you intend to send.
- Quoting: Every Windows path containing spaces is enclosed in double quotes.
- Tool choice: PSCP is selected for a one-shot copy; PSFTP is selected for browsing or repeated operations.
These checks separate connection problems from file-selection and permission problems. They also prevent a valid login from being mistaken for proof that an upload can succeed.
What a successful transfer does—and does not—prove
A completed PSCP command or successful PSFTP put proves that the utility authenticated and transferred data to the specified target. It does not by itself prove that a downstream application has processed the file, that another user can read it, or that the account can write to every other directory. Treat the exact remote path and account as part of the result, especially when several environments use similar folder names.
For an interactive session, use dir after uploading to check the remote listing. For a one-shot PSCP command, preserve the exact command and destination in your operational notes so that a later check examines the same location rather than a similarly named folder.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
